Cultural Differences in Namibia

When travelling to a new country, cultural differences are inevitable. I knew that there would be some differences, but there were a few things that I was unaware of. For example, I had no idea that Namibians eat their evening oatmeal with their hands. I was all set to put out spoons for the kids when they pointed it out and I felt a little silly for not realizing!

I also learned that Namibians generally don’t speak during meals. In my home, dinnertime is when everyone shares how their day went so I kept asking the SOS children about their day at school.  It wasn’t until after dinner that I was told why no one was answering me.

Another interesting cultural difference I learned was that you don’t just walk up to someone and ask for directions – you first have to make small-talk or the request is seen as rude. I love how in my father’s home country of Mexico, everyone talks to each other as well! They acknowledge everyone they pass in the streets.  Here in Toronto, it feels like life is so much busier and we tend to always have our eyes on our smart phones. It was refreshing to be in a city where socializing takes priority!